Rohit Sharma's recent decision to return to the top of the batting order during India's fourth Test loss to Australia has sparked significant criticism, particularly from former cricketer Aakash Chopra. According to Chopra, this was the first time in Rohit's captaincy career that he made a decision that seemed to prioritize his own interests over the needs of the team. The move to promote himself as an opener in Melbourne came after Rohit had played in the middle order during the earlier Tests in Adelaide and Brisbane, where KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal had been performing well at the top of the order.
In those earlier Tests, Rohit had been moved down to accommodate the strong opening partnership between Rahul and Jaiswal. His decision to make way for the younger pair had been seen as selfless, as the team had benefited from the solid opening stands. However, after a series of poor performances in the middle order, where Rohit struggled to make an impact, he chose to return to the opening position during the crucial fourth Test against Australia. This was a critical moment in the series, and the change was not only surprising but led to further questions about whether the decision was in the best interests of the team.
Rohit's return to the opening slot resulted in Shubman Gill being dropped from the playing XI, a move that left many fans and analysts puzzled. Gill, who had been in excellent form throughout 2023, and had shown resilience in challenging situations, had done well in previous matches. His exclusion, especially after a strong year, seemed to suggest that the captain’s need to return to the top order took precedence over the team’s balance and strategy. The decision also meant that India chose to field three all-rounders in their XI, a move that didn’t quite pay off, as the team was unable to save the Test, collapsing to just 155 runs in their final innings, falling short of drawing the match.
Aakash Chopra reflected on the shift in dynamics, pointing out that for the first time in his career, Rohit had made a decision that seemed more aligned with his personal ambition rather than the collective good of the team. Chopra explained that in the past, players like MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli had made decisions to move Rohit to the top of the order, recognizing his ability to excel in that role and the team's need for his form. However, this time, Chopra felt that the decision was based more on Rohit’s personal desire to get back into form rather than a tactical decision for the team’s benefit.
Chopra went on to suggest that, in the team’s best interests, Rohit should consider sitting out of the upcoming Sydney Test. This, Chopra argued, would allow Shubman Gill to take his place at No. 3 and provide the team with a more balanced approach, especially given the struggles Rohit has faced with the bat. Chopra emphasized that while retirement is a deeply personal decision for any player, the selectors also have the authority to make difficult calls for the team’s future. He raised the question of whether Rohit, in light of his form and the team’s overall struggles, would consider making this selfless decision. Chopra noted that many players, including Rohit, tend to believe in their ability to bounce back, which could be why the captain might hesitate to take such a step, despite the mounting pressure.
As the series progresses, the selectors, led by Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar, are under increasing scrutiny. Chopra urged them to take a decisive call, considering the overall health of the team and the need for the best players to be in the XI, regardless of seniority or captaincy status.
Rohit Sharma began 2024 with a strong showing against England, leading India to victory and playing a pivotal role in the T20 World Cup. However, his form in the Test series against Australia has been concerning. With only 164 runs from eight Tests, and an average of just 10, his struggles with the bat have raised questions about his place in the team. His captaincy, while respected, has also come under increased scrutiny, especially with key decisions like the one made in Melbourne. The ongoing series will likely be a critical juncture for Rohit Sharma's future in Test cricket, and how he and the selectors respond to the challenges will shape the direction of India’s cricketing future.
